In 1996, 100 feet of water
(37,400cfs) rushed through Ausable Chasm destroying the stairs, railings and bridges in the upper section of the Chasm. Now, for the first time since the flood, guests can access the Upper Chasm with our "Cave & Waterfall Hike". After meeting outside the Welcome Center, guides will outfit the group with hard hats then lead the tour almost 200 feet down the remains of the old access stairs.

Deep inside the Chasm, the tour proceeds to Elephant’s Head Rock, the Chasm’s most famous rock formation, where guides will explain how the forces of nature created this natural wonder. The next stop is inside the Devil’s Oven Cave, carved by a whirlpool thousands of years ago. After hiking back up stream, the tour continues under the historic, Route 9 arch bridge to the base of Rainbow Falls. If you thought this 80 foot waterfall was amazing from the bridge, the view from the pool will drop your jaw. Depending on water levels, the tour will bring you close enough to shower in the mist.

The tour concludes with a climb back up the steep staircase. Be sure to bring a camera, as your guide will be happy to take your photo at a few choice locations. Hiking boots are highly recommended as you need to be prepared to scramble over loose rocks, walk on slick sections of sandstone, and explore where no railings separate you and the raging waters. Guests must be at least 13 years old and possess a good level of physical fitness. Approximately one hour of hiking.